Setting the record straight

In response to a Dec. 4 letter by Berta Gonzales-Harper (“Do we really need more like Boydston?”), I would like to set the record straight.

Her letter stated: “Bonja is an educator yet she did not bother to educate herself on driveway width standards.” Our driveway is more than 30 years old and predates the standards and our ownership.

In addition, there are no standards concerning the unusual driveways in the Bonelli Tract. Our garages are not square to the property, nor are they opposite the exit to the street.

At our meeting on Oct. 26, driveway standards were asked about. Not one of the six city employees in the room could answer. City inspectors bypassed that driveway many times in approving a recent addition to our home, seeing no problem.

The letter stated: “She could have met with city staff at any time to discuss the issues.”

In fact, many in our neighborhood wrote letters, made phone calls and went to City Hall attempting to discuss our issues. We found no one to listen.

The letter stated: “There are free money grants available from the city to pay for required code corrections.” The truth is that, when asked, neighbors were told there was currently no money available.

The letter stated, “(TimBen Boydston) orchestrated the Bonelli Tract brouhaha to garner more votes.” In fact, it was after we were at an impasse that Boydston became involved.

The coincidence that his daughter is in my class opened the door to someone who listened. He did no orchestrating, as there was plenty of leadership for our efforts within the neighborhood.

Finally, yes, we need more people like Boydston. I am proud to support his candidacy for City Council, knowing he would be a resource so people can be heard, supported and assisted.